Shelters; warming and cooling centers
During an emergency or natural disaster, emergency shelters play a critical role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and survival of affected individuals and communities. These shelters provide a safe haven for those displaced or at risk, offering temporary refuge, basic necessities, and essential services. They offer protection from immediate threats, such as extreme weather conditions, and help mitigate the potential impact of the disaster on vulnerable populations. Emergency shelters also facilitate coordination and support from relief agencies, enabling the efficient distribution of food, water, medical assistance, and emotional support.
For access to information pertaining to Ulster County Emergency shelters, visit the Ulster County shelter and center page. The site will be updated when a shelter or center is opened in Ulster County.
You can also visit the Red Cross Shelter Map to discover open shelters that are operated by the Red Cross or partner agencies.
Warming and Cooling Centers
Warming Centers:
Extreme cold weather events such as blizzards are becoming more likely in the Northeast and are predicted to increase in intensity despite rising temperatures and shortened winters. Warming centers can ensure your safety and prevent exposure to dangerous and inclement weather.
County:
Law Enforcement agencies or any other organizations that come in contact with or become aware of any individuals that need shelter can bring them to the warming center. Warming Centers will open when the outdoor temperature drops below 32 degrees.
Location: 2nda Iglesias La Misión Church, 80 Elmendorf St., Kingston (pictured)
Warming Center Transportation: UCAT, (845) 340-3333
For up-to-date information on county-operated warming centers, visit the Ulster County Emergency Services webpage or check the Ulster County Facebook page for updates.
Cooling Centers:
Planning for extreme heat is critical for ensuring the long-term resilience of a community and reducing the number of deaths and hospitalizations that occur during high-heat events. Cooling centers are air-conditioned spaces where the public can cool down. Air-conditioned libraries, supermarkets, and malls are great places in the community to get cool. Shaded areas of local and state parks or swimming facilities like community pools and beaches are also places you can go to get cool during the summer heat.
County:
Law Enforcement agencies or any other organizations that come in contact with or become aware of any individuals that need shelter can bring them to the warming center. Cooling Centers will open when there are 3 or more consecutive days above 90 degrees.
Location: 2nda Iglesias La Misión Church, 80 Elmendorf St., Kingston
Cooling Center Transportation: UCAT, (845) 340-3333
For up-to-date information on county-operated cooling centers, visit the Ulster County Emergency Services webpage or check the Ulster County Facebook page for updates.
Food Pantries
During and after an emergency, residents are encouraged to utilize food pantries. These resources play a vital role in providing essential nourishment to individuals and families facing food insecurity during challenging times. Food pantries help bridge the gap when access to regular food supplies is disrupted or limited due to emergencies such as natural disasters. They offer a lifeline by distributing donated food items and groceries to those in need, ensuring that nobody goes hungry.
Reference this map to find which location is closest for you and how to get there via public transportation. Visit the UlsterCorps website for an updated list of food pantries and relevant resources.